FAQs

• I’ve heard of physiotherapy but I don’t know what it is. What is it?

  Physiotherapy is a medical, hands-on approach to relieving pain and restoring function. Physiotherapists are medical experts in musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and work closely with physicians. 

  Our physiotherapists evaluate your movement patterns, identify the cause of your pain, and work to eliminate it.

  While every patient’s condition and pain is unique, our physiotherapist will use a variety of gentle hands-on techniques, exercises, and equipment to relieve pain quickly and restore your function to optimum levels. 

  The overall goal is to restore pain-free mobility and function and to prevent the injury or pain from recurring.

• How do I find a physiotherapist?

  As a patient you have the right to receive physiotherapy at any place you choose. At SOS Physiotherapy, you will receive the highest quality care while achieving the results you need.  

  We pride ourselves on providing a positive, encouraging environment with well-trained, friendly staff.  We are confident in our ability to help you reach your goals and live a pain-free life.

• Will physiotherapy benefit me?

  Working with you and your doctor, we can discuss your options and help determine if physiotherapy will be the right choice for you. Call us today to discuss your current condition or request a consult now.

• Will physiotherapy hurt me?

  Physiotherapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels, at times can fluctuate. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. 

  This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.

• Are your physiotherapists trained to treat my condition?

  Physiotherapists have years of university level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint movement), neurology, and many of the other medical sciences. 

  Our physiotherapists have graduated from accredited physiotherapy programs and are licensed with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.

  Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.

• I want to schedule an appointment – how do I do that?

  Our scheduling is easy and we offer a convenient location and appointment times for you. We have morning and evening appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Call us today or request a consult.

• What should I wear to my sessions?

  Dress comfortably with clothes that allow easy access for the therapist to examine your problem areas. 

  For treatments, loose fitting clothes that are comfortable for gentle exercises and supportive sneakers are often good choices to wear.

• How long will each of my sessions last?

  Typically, the first session lasts for 1 hour 15 minutes. Each session after that may be 30-45minutes. The amount of time will be based on your specific needs, and your therapist will discuss this with you.

• How many times will I need to come in before I feel better?

  Each patient’s diagnosis is different, so together with your referring physician, your therapist will develop a plan of care that is right for you. 

  Your plan of care and number of visits will be determined during your first visit and explained to you by our physiotherapist.

• Will my sessions be covered by insurance?

  Yes, in most cases it does. SOS Physiotherapy will be happy to assist in contacting your insurance company and determining your coverage based on your individual policy. 

  For more information, visit our insurance plan page and please do not hesitate to contact our Kitchener, Elmira, and Northfield, ON physiotherapy office. We do offer different payment options for your convenience.

• I don’t have insurance – what do I do?

  The Staff at SOS Physiotherapy will do everything they can to make sure you get the best possible outcome from your treatment, regardless of your income or whether or not you have benefits.  It's important that you inform your Therapist during the assessment that there may be some limitations in being able to adhere to the best Plan of Care possible, and the Therapist will then work with you to try and obtain the best results over the course of your treatment.

• How should I pay?

  We accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. We are happy to discuss payment plan options as well. It is our policy that payment is made at the time of service. 

  Your insurance benefits will be determined before your second visit, and you will be informed of what, if any, payment is necessary on that date.

• How should I prepare for my initial appointment?

  Please have your prescription and insurance card available when you call. This will allow us to verify your insurance benefits and provide you with an estimate of coverage.

  To bring on your first visit:

  • A prescription (if needed) for physiotherapy from your referring physician, ARNP, or PA.
  • Insurance information (we will make a copy of your card).
  • Print out the patient forms, fill them out, and bring them with you.
  • In case of an automobile accident or worker’s compensation claim, also bring any case manager or insurance adjuster contact names, phone numbers, and claim number.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork, so you can maximize your time in your evaluation.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your problem areas.

• Can I continue sessions even after I feel better?

  Yes, once you have completed your therapy sessions, your therapist will review your continuing home program.  

  We can make arrangements to meet you at your gym to work with you on determining what equipment may be beneficial, and what exercises would be helpful in your continued recovery.